The disappearance of Tashard Choice

IRVING – With the NFL trade deadline set for 3 p.m. today, it’s only natural to engage in some speculation on the future of Cowboys third-string running back Tashard Choice.

The Georgia Tech alum, who once held so much promise as a third-down back, has all but disappeared from the Cowboys offense. Since logging two rushes for 4 yards in the win over Houston before the club’s bye week, Choice hasn’t touched the ball. For the season, he’s logged only eight carries for 21 yards.

The disminished work load is easily explained, Wade Phillips said.

“Once we increased (Felix Jones’) play, that forced us to put (starter) Marion (Barber) in third downs where he could get in all the short-yardage stuff, which I thought he did a really good job of,” Phillips said. “It cut down on (Choice’s) opportunities.”

So what to do with Choice?

Club VP Stephen Jones said last week there were no trades in the works. From the standpoint that Choice backs up two players who have struggled with injuries, it’s probably wise for the Cowboys to hold onto Choice.

But with the team sitting in last place with a 1-4 record, why not give Choice a chance to spark the offense. In Minnesota, Jones, Barber and FB Chris Gronkowski combined for just 62 yards on 25 carries. If fact, the most effective rusher against the Vikings was QB Tony Romo, who finished with 31 yards on three attempts.

With the season on the brink Monday night against the Giants, the Cowboys have to pull out all stops. Again, why not give Choice a chance?